October 26, 2020

On his first start since being run down by Champ in that highly dramatic RSA Chase back in March, 8/13 favourite Minella Indo had no problems landing the M.W. Hickey Memorial Steeplechase (Grade 3).

After disputing the lead with market rival, and Kim Muir winner, Milan Native, the 7-year-old took over at the tenth and went clear before the second-last.

He coasted home under Rachael Blackmore to win for the second time, from four starts, over fences.

The 160-rated Beat Hollow gelding was cut to 10/1, from 12s, by Paddy Power for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

After Kapard earlier on, it was a double for Blackmore and also for winning trainer Henry de Bromhead who said: "I'm delighted with that. He jumped brilliant and Rachael was brilliant on him.

“He looked sharp for his first run. We got him in a bit earlier and maybe that made the difference. He looked really sharp today.

"Coming away from the RSA you'd be hoping he'd turn into a Gold Cup horse, but we'll see and we'll take it one race at time. It's very likely he'll go for the race at Navan now next month (the Grade 2, BetVictor Make Your Best Bet Chase).

"He seems to handle any ground and Rachael was delighted with him.

October 25, 2020

Champagne Gold ran out a comfortable winner of the Carnsore Point Maiden Hurdle, scoring under Dylan Robinson for Henry de Bromhead.

Placed in a point-to-point at Boulta for Roisin Hickey, the son of Presenting subsequently changed hands for 90,000 pounds.

Second on his racecourse debut at Clonmel earlier this month, the five-year-old bay was expected to go one place better this afternoon and was sent off the 5/4 favourite.

Settled behind the clear leader Jazz Toes, the Barry Maloney owned victor reeled-in that front-runner approaching four out and took over at the head of affairs.

Briefly headed three out, he quickly regained the lead and went a few lengths clear as they entered the straight, keeping on well from there to see off Place Des Vosges by four and a quarter lengths.

January 01, 2020

Five lined up in the Idealgraphix.ie Branding Irish Racecourses Novice Chase (Grade 3) and all bar Razoul held a chance racing down to the last.

Having been held up in rear, but in touch, by Dylan Robinson, Zarkareva (5/1) landed running despite just brushing through the top of the final fence and found plenty under hands and heels to beat front-runner Polished Steel (12/1) by two and a quarter lengths.

15/8 favourite A Wave Of The Sea, having made a few novicey errors on the way around, kept on at the same pace after the last to be just a head further back in third.

A 4-year-old by Authorized, the Robcour-owned filly had won a juvenile hurdle in France and, having fallen on her chase debut, easily won a beginners’ chase next time out at Sligo.

She benefitted from getting all the allowances here, being in receipt of 23lb from the penalised runner-up, albeit winning rider Robinson couldn’t utilise his 3lb claim in this Graded contest.

It was his second Graded race victory after winning on Ornua in a Grade 3 at Roscommon a couple of years ago.

"She gave me a great feel and when I asked her to quicken she winged the last and did it all very easily," said Robinson.

“Her jumping got better as the race went on. She travelled nicely and as she was getting there I was taking her back the whole time. I was very impressed with her.”

October 14, 2020

Gigginstown recorded a 1-2 in the Ladbrokes Best Odds Guaranteed Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown but not in the order that most would have anticipated as Baptism Of Fire got the better of the odds-on Wide Receiver.

Wide Receiver looked set to justify odds of 8/13 when asserting about four lengths clear approaching the final flight.

However, the favourite was far from fluent at the last and the Henry de Bromhead-trained Baptism Of Fire (6/1-9/2) took full advantage finishing strongly on the run-in to get up close home.

Rachael Blackmore’s mount scored by a length and a quarter, with Valentina Lady keeping on well just a length further back in third.

Blackmore said, “He had to really battle there at the end and is a real stayer. It was a lovely first run.

“He won his point-to-point for Denis Murphy and loves jumping. I’d say he’s going to be a real staying horse.”

October 12, 2020

The two Gigginstown House Stud horses had the Wineport Lodge Beginners’ Chase to themselves as they turned in to face the final fence.

The 6/4 favourite Royal Thief held a narrow advantage over the last but veered left under pressure early on the run-in and gave the challenging Battle Of Midway (15/8) a hefty bump.

Straightened up by Rachael Blackmore, he was holding the runner-up close home and passed the post half a length to the good.

Confirmed the winner after a stewards’ enquiry, the Fame And Glory 6-year-old was giving Blackmore and trainer Henry de Bromhead doubles on the day after Brave Way’s earlier win.

It was a winning chasing debut for Royal Thief, twice a winner over hurdles around Thurles last season, and stamina really looks like this one’s strong suit.

“He was entitled to do that off his hurdles mark and hopefully he can make into a better chaser,” said Blackmore.

October 12, 2020

The 1/2 favourite Brave Way comfortably landed the Irish Farmers Journal (Mares) Maiden Hurdle in the hands of Rachael Blackmore (back in action after her fall in the opener at Limerick yesterday).

The Jeremy 5-year-old led away from two out and shrugged off the challenge of Champagne Diva (7/2) before the last, coming home seven and a half lengths lengths clear of that one.

A winner of her only point-to-point at Knockinroe for Warren Ewing this time last year, she was sold shortly after for £160,000 to Honeysuckle’s owner Kenny Alexander and joined Henry de Bromhead.

“It was a really good performance, she's really nice,” said Blackmore.

“She won a point-to-point for Warren Ewing and Richie Deegan and that was a lovely way to start her off.

“She went round there fine. It was a lovely introduction run and hopefully she can build on it now.”

October 11, 2020

Sean Flanagan successfully substituted for the second time when completing a treble at Limerick today, steering the Henry De Bromhead trained Visioman to win the Limerick Rated Chase.

Flanagan filled-in for injured Keith Donoghue with an opening race win on the Matthew Smith trained Formal Order, before doubling his score with on his scheduled ride Cast Mate in the second race.

Flanagan and Formal Order were the beneficiaries from leader Commandingpresence's fall in that opener and with Commandingpresence's jockey Rachael Blackmore subsequently stood down, Flanagan picked up the 'spare' on De Bromhead's Visionman.

Free-going front-runner Djingle's presence in the race elicited a cheery 'Djingle all the way' prediction from the Irish Examiner's on-course reporter Tommy Lyons, but in the race Visionman did eventually wear down Djingle jumping the last, and scored by four lengths.

Following the race De Bromhead reported “he jumped brilliant and Sean gave him a super ride. It is frustrating for Rachael but is great for Sean and I'm delighted for the Halsalls (owners).

“Rachael is a bit sore and is going to get checked out so hopefully she will be back soon.”

Regarding Visioman he added “it was hard to believe going up the back straight that he could pick up the leader Djingle but the pace they went you'd always hope it might happen.

“Our lad stuck at it really well and he is tipping away nicely, is improving with every run and Dylan (Robinson) was very good on him at Kilbeggan the last day.

“We rode him more forcefully as a novice but he seems to enjoy sitting in. He is great to jump and loves it.

October 05, 2020

In a race where several came to grief, Ask Cory (13/2) was handy all the way in the KWD Beginners’ Chase and kept galloping up the straight to win by three and a quarter lengths from Man On The Run (15/2).

Pat Coyne (10/1) was a further two and three quarters of a length back in third, while the 4/1 favourite Cushinstown Finest was fifth.

The 7-year-old winner, by Ask, had accrued plenty of experience in handicap chases for previous handler Colin McBratney, and was getting off the mark here on his third start for Henry de Bromhead.

Winning rider Rachael Blackmore said: "It was a good performance and he jumped and travelled a lot better today than he did the last day.

"It was the ideal race for him (confined to horses rated 0-102 over hurdles) and he seemed to enjoy it around here."

September 23, 2020

There was a lot less jumping to be done than is usually the case in the Brandon Hotel Beginners’ Chase with the two fences in the home straight omitted due to the low-lying sun.

Stacks Mountain (5/2) tracked Pilbara (7/1) throughout before leading away from the final fence jumped (normally the third-last).

From there Rachael Blackmore (a double after Popong in the mares’ chase) kept him going to beat the latter by eight lengths, with the 13/8 favourite Star Max unable to land a blow back in third.

The winner, a dual hurdles winner by Black Sam Bellamy, had finished third on his first completed start over fences at Killarney last month having unseated rider on his chase debut at Roscommon.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead, also completing a double after Popong earlier in the afternoon, said: "I'm delighted with that. Obviously we were missing a few fences but I thought he jumped very well and went through the ground well so I'm very happy and Rachael was happy with him.

“We'll see how he comes out of it and see what we'll do then.

“He seems to appreciate a bit of ease in the ground and has really got his jumping together after the first day.

“I'm delighted for John Byrne. It's great to get one for him down here. Sadly he couldn't make it, he might be preparing for his impending marriage!”

September 23, 2020

Popong (9/4) took the Ballygarry House Hotel Mares’ Novice Chase after the 6/5 favourite Western Victory came down at the last when in front.

The market leader had put in a fairly sound round of jumping and looked the winner most of the way, but her nearest pursuers were still snapping at her heels as they approached the final fence.

The favourite clipped the top of it and came down, leaving Rapid Response (5/1) and Popong to fight it out up the run-in. Rachael Blackmore’s whip went flying out the side door but it mattered not as her mount found enough to score by three quarters of a length.

The winner won twice over hurdles and had been runner-up on her chasing debut at Tipperary in July.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "She really toughed it out. Conditions wouldn't have been ideal for her and her jumping went to pot a little bit halfway through the race.

“Rachael nursed her around and we got back into it. Obviously we had a bit of luck at the last but I'm delighted for the lads.

“She hadn't run for a while before Tipperary and got tired there. I thought she ran fine that day but we were hoping she'd be better than that.

“That was a great run today and it's great to get her to win one over fences.”

September 20, 2020

Tellmesomethinggirl made virtually all to take the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Hurdle at Listowel in the hands of Robbie Power.

The five-year-old daughter of Stowaway dictated throughout but was pressed and headed by Darrens Hope on the run to the third last.

Darrens Hope couldn't keep the gallop up approaching the straight, though, and came off the bridle as Tellmesomethinggirl eased back in front.

The leader fiddled the second last and Darrens Hope got her second wind in pursuit of her.

A good jump at the last sealed the deal for the 8/11 favourite who kept on to prevail by two and a quarter lengths from the 16/5 runner-up.

Henry de Bromhead said: "She did it the hard way and the mare in second is a decent mare and we were giving her 10lbs. I thought we had shaken her off until she came back at us again, so I'm delighted and she has done nothing wrong through the summer.

"I'll discuss it with the owner but we might give her a little break now; she'll go on soft but we ran her on winter ground at Clonmel last January and she couldn't walk on it. She loved summer soft at Bellewstown.

September 19, 2020

Rachael Blackmore doubled up at Navan today when Somptueux ran out a convincing winner of the beginners chase on the card.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding had been second on his first outing over fences at Downpatrick late last month and went one better in good style this afternoon.

Blackmore sent the 5/2 shot up to lead three from home and he pulled clear from the next to record a eight-length success over Fred The Foot.

Blackmore had also struck on Annexation for the yard in the opener and she said:-

“It was a good performance. He had a lovely run the last day in Downpatrick. He enjoys jumping.”

September 19, 2020

Annexation made a fine winning jumps debut at Navan today as the Rachael Blackmore partnered gelding landed the opening Bet Online With BarOneRacing.com Maiden Hurdle for trainer Henry De Bromhead.

Sons of Wootton Bassett send 'racing Twitter' into a tizzy and the stallion-of-note, a multi-million euro Coolmore purchase in August, today produced his first Irish jumps winner with Annexation, having had two such winners in Britain and one in France.

Annexation was today held up behind the leaders and moved through to pass leader Charcor on the run-in before eventually scoring a two and a half lengths win over that rival.

De Bromhead wasn't present and afterwards Blackmore reported “it was a lovely performance. He's done well on the Flat since joining Henry and has been schooling well at home so it's great to see him do that.”

September 09, 2020

Ellie Mac appreciated the addition of blinkers when returning to form in the featured Conway Piling Handicap Hurdle at odds of 8/1 in Punchestown.

The Court Cave mare, owned by the Niccolai Schuster Horse Racing Club, was recording her fourth career win but her first in nearly two years.

The seven-year-old struck the front after three out under Rachael Blackmore in this extended 2m7f event, and just got the better of a tremendous battle with Mister Fogpatches on the run-in.

A half a length separated the pair at the line, with Cherif De L’isle four and three quarter lengths further adrift in third.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said, “I’m delighted for the syndicate and all credit to John Schuster who suggested trying her in blinkers. They seem to have done the trick.”

January 07, 2020

Henry de Bromhead looks to have a good prospect on his hands in Commandingpresence who demolished the opposition in Punchestown.

The five-year-old gelding had finished runner-up, by 20 lengths, in a point-to-point in January in Britain but left that form well behind on Irish debut.

He raced close to the pace and was on the shoulder of Clondaw Bertie who picked up the lead after the third last.

Rachael Blackmore asked him to go and win his race approaching the home straight and he shot clear.

He had the race in the bag at the last where he survived a mistake to come home by 15 lengths at 14/1. Dakota Beat came through for second at 5/1 by a head from Fest Deiz (10/1).

“It was a very good performance. He's been doing his work well at home and it's great to see him do that,” said Rachael Blackmore.

“He was second in a point-to-point in England and that was a very good performance for his first run. It was great to get a start like that.”

January 07, 2020

Tiger Voice stayed on best in the closing stages to claim the beginners chase at Galway and land a double on the card for his connections.

Like January Jets in the opener the Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding was ridden to victory by Robbie Power in the colours of Robcour.

Konitho lead them into the home-straight in the two-mile-two contest but couldn't hold the surge of Tiger Voice inside the final furlong.

The Poet's Voice gelding, sent off the 3/1 favourite, galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a two length win over long-time leader Ballymacaw, who stayed on again close home.

Tiger Voice was making his first start since finishing mid-division in the Country Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Power said:- "he jumped super - he reached for one but apart from that he was very good. We didn't go that quick and it suited him as he has plenty speed for that trip

"He is only a five year old and we were a bit disappointed with him over hurdles to be honest as he didn't fulfill what he was showing at home.

"He'll improve plenty for today."

September 06, 2020

The McHale Mayo Irish EBF (Mares) Handicap Hurdle went to the well-fancied Tune The Chello (11/2, from 11s in the morning) who was handy all the way under Robbie Power before hitting the front after the second-last. 

She stayed on well to win by four lengths from Rescue Package (13/2), with Mrs Milner (10/3 fav) sticking to her task well in third, a further two lengths away. 

It was a winner on his first ride back for Power, who broke a bone in his foot in a fall from Dandjira at Tramore on August 14th and has been on the sidelines since then. 

The winning daughter of Ask, trained by Henry de Bromhead for Robcour, had won a maiden hurdle at Killarney before finishing mid-division in her first handicap hurdle at the Galway Festival. 

"She’s a good honest mare but that ground would be as soft as she’d want it,” said Power.

“She had a light-weight though and got away with it.

“I don’t think Henry (de Bromhead) will mind me saying that his horses weren’t in flying form going into Galway. I had fancied her for her run there. Anyway she’s after putting it right today.

“We changed tactics at Galway. We dropped her in a little bit because it was her first handicap and she just didn’t like it. She likes to have things her own way and get on with things. 

"Today we went back to how we rode her in her maiden (at Killarney), nice and handy, and they went plenty quick enough early on but she got into nice rhythm. 

"It was a very competitive race and she won well. She probably handled the soft ground better than a lot of the others. We’ll see what the handicapper does and she’ll jump a fence as well.

September 04, 2020

The Kilsaran Handicap Chase saw 7/2 favourite Visioman get up in the final stride (matched at 220 on Betfair before the last) to touch off long-absent stablemate Abbey Magic (5/1). 

The latter, who had won three in a row over fences as a novice in 2018 but had been sidelined since October of that year, was holding the challenging Nobody Home on the run to the last as the hard-ridden Visioman moved into third. 

Dylan Robinson, who along with winning trainer Henry de Bromhead was recording a double after the short-priced favourite Fusain in the first, got a good response from his mount on the run-in as the leader understandably began to feel the pinch late on, and the French-bred 7-year-old got up by a head to make it three wins from seven starts over fences.

September 04, 2020

The Pat Doyle Memorial Maiden Hurdle (Div I) looked at the mercy of the 126-rated Fusain (2/9 fav) and Henry de Bromhead’s 5-year-old duly obliged in the hands of Dylan Robinson. 

Placed on his only start in France, he had some creditable form last season including a second place finish at Navan and a fifth to the useful Cedarwood Road at Leopardstown’s Chrismas meeting. 

Here, he took a lead from 66/1 chance Kitty Galore before heading that one on the long run between the final two flights, and he eased clear to score by a dozen lengths, with Kitty Galore holding on to second by a neck from hurdling debutant Ally Cay (6/1).

The wining rider said: "You couldn't ask for any more. He was as straight as you'd want, jumped like a buck and travelled all the way to the line.

“He was much the better horse. He'll improve from that and we'll see where he goes from here now.

“During the winter he was running against some good horses in good maidens and today was a bit of a step down.

“I felt we were going plenty quick enough and I was just creeping away and getting closer. As soon as I got upsides the other horse he found another gear and went on again. I was very happy with him.

“He had a good blow coming in so there is plenty more improvement in him.”

September 03, 2020

Say It Ain't So battled back gamely to get up again close home and land the Redmondstown Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel for Henry de Bromhead.

The Kayf Tara gelding was a promising fourth on his debut at Limerick in June but had faded after running keenly back at the same track the following month.

He was prominent throughout in today's two-mile contest under Daniel Holden but surrendered the lead to 2/1 favourite Master Artist two from home after a sloppy jump.

Holden gave the 8/1 shot a strong drive on the run-in and he got his head in front again close home to record a neck success.

De Bromhead had lost last flight faller Hollow Moon in the opener and said:- "It was very sad about the mare in the first; she looked to be going really well she fell and it is very sad to lose her.

"I'm delighted with this guy and he is a real big chasing type of horse who loves that better ground. Hopefully he has a nice future and he is such a big horse all the time he gets will stand to him.

"I'll wait until next year to go chasing.

"The ground was a bit on the quick side for (the withdrawn) January Jets."

January 01, 2020

Henry de Bromhead saddled the first and third in the Money Back On The BoyleSports App Chase at Wexford as favourite Paloma Blue led them home under Rachael Blackmore.

In first-time cheek-pieces stable companion Ornua ended up beaten twelve lengths overall in the bronze medal position, as the mare Western Victory gave Paloma Blue most to do.

In truth Blackmore looked to be content enough that she had matters in hand over the closing couple of fences in the straight. The Chris Jones owned victor eventually got it done by three lengths — a performance probably somewhere in line with his 149 rating.

"I'm delighted with him and it's great to see him winning again,” said de Bromhead.

“I'd say we'll head towards the Fortria now and we'll see where he goes in between. He might possibly go for the PWC Chase at Gowran in October."

August 28, 2020

Rachael Blackmore headed north for one ride at Down Royal and she made it a winning one on Premium Package in the two and a half mile maiden hurdle.

The five-year-old gelding disputed after four out and was ridden into the lead after the third last. He kept on stoutly to prevail by five lengths at 3/1.

Henry de Bromhead’s charge beat I’m So Busy (8/1) into second and he was four and three quarter lengths ahead of 4/1 shot Red Gerry.

Rachael Blackmore said: “He had a lovely first run in Roscommon and he’s always been a very nice horse at home.

“He won a point-to-point for Liam Kenny, so it’s great to get him off the mark today.

“In Tramore we were disappointed with him but he’s back to himself today and it was a great run.”

August 25, 2020

Henry de Bromhead’s Tellmesomethinggirl made every yard to land the John H Kierans Memorial Mares Hurdle in Bellewstown.

An extended two miles four furlongs was the trip on offer and the five-year-old mare had her rivals in trouble as she galloped on stoutly after the second last.

Bon Retour, the 4/9 favourite, who had tracked her throughout soon hit the buffers and dropped away in third.

The well-backed leader (9/2 — 11/4) ploughed through the soft ground to put runner-up Two Shoe Tom (17/2) away by eight lengths. 

“She did that really well. Henry has always thought a lot of her and she's going the right way now,” said Rachael Blackmore.

“Two miles is probably on the sharp side for her so that was perfect today.”

August 16, 2020

Boro Tari made it third time lucky over fences when victorious in the Viking Triangle Waterford Mares Beginners Chase at Tramore.

J J Slevin sported the Hill silks of the legendary Dawn Run, aboard this successful daughter of Gold Well, and she didn’t need a second invite with favourite Rapid Response hanging away her chance.

The latter did some things right in front but it was soon apparent that she was ill at ease on the track, leaning away to her left.

Boro Tari found plenty on the run-in to beat Rapid Response by a length and three parts.

"I'm delighted with that. JJ was really good on her. She was tough and stayed well. She never really jumped here the last day but JJ got her jumping much better today,” said winning trainer Henry de Bromhead, visiting the number one for the first time since July 19th.

“It's been a while since we had a winner. It's nice to get back on the board and hopefully we'll get rolling along again.

"I'm delighted for the Hill's. She is 116 over fences and she'll either go for a rated novice now or handicapping, we'll see."

July 19, 2020

Henry de Bromhead ran four in the Bet With MansionBet Handicap Chase and after the last he knew he was going to collect first prize as two of his quartet fought out the finish. 

Topweight Mind’s Eye (14/1), with his impost reduced by Hugh Morgan’s 7lbs claim, just held on by a diminishing short head from Riviera Sun. 

Reach Up was back in third, with another de Bromhead inmate, Visioman, sent off the 3/1 favourite, coming home in seventh place.

It was a first victory since October 2018 for the Gigginstown-owned gelding by Stowaway, who now has two chase wins to go with two successes over hurdles. 

The absent de Bromhead has now won this corresponding event three times in a row and had the winner in good shape on his first run since February, and first chase start since last November.

July 13, 2020

The Wonky Tonk timed it well in the opener at Roscommon as he got his head in front on the line to claim the Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle.

Henry de Bromhead's charge still had plenty to do early in the straight but answered every call from Hugh Morgan.

The 2/1 favourite came to press front-runner Lauderdale Lady on the run-in and had his head in front at the post to record a head victory.

“He was good. They went a fair gallop, I was just trying to keep tabs on them and he did his best work up the straight,” said Morgan.

“Even three from home he still had a good bit of ground to make up but he just started rolling. I kept at him hands and heels as that was working with him.

“He got up well at the line and you'd like to think he'll get a bit further. He was only doing his best work late on.”

July 08, 2020

Trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore have made an excellent start to the new jumps season and both combined to win the Hibernia Steel Products (Mares) Maiden Hurdle at Bellewstown today with She Tops The Lot (7/4 second-favourite).

The daughter of Yeats today made all for a three and a half lengths win over 11/8f Trevena to provide Dr Bromhead with a seventh jumps win since the resumption of national hunt racing on June 22.

Blackmore, riding her fifth jumps winner in that time, later reported “she had a good run the last day. She was disappointing in her point-to-points and her first run for Henry was on soft ground.

“Maybe just hitting the nicer ground this summer has helped her. She's progressed again from her first run and hopefully she'll stay going the right direction now.”

Both De Bromhead and Blackmore now lead their respective Championships.

July 07, 2020

Tune The Chello, under Robbie Power, justified 5/4 favouritism when winning the Kelly Farm Modernisation Ltd Mares Maiden Hurdle at Killarney today, scoring a 10th winner since the resumption of racing for trainer Henry De Bromhead.

The daughter of Ask was placed on both her latest maiden hurdle starts last January and today reappeared when making all to eventually beat off the challenge of Mystery Stowaway by two and three parts of a length.

De Bromhead wasn't present and afterwards Gold Cup winner Power reported “she is real honest and genuine and stays really well but isn't slow either.

“I rode her on her first hurdles run and I didn't think she was that slow but she stays well. We went a nice even gallop and she quickened up well in the straight.

“She handles soft ground so every bit of rain helped and she has plenty options now.”

July 05, 2020

Usually run at the Curragh, the Marble Hill Stakes (Group 3) took place at Cork and Minaun (7/1) landed the prize to give trainer Henry de Bromhead his first Group winner on the Flat.

Second over a furlong further on her debut at Leopardstown, she was always handy and took over the lead two furlongs out from Arctician.

The latter didn’t lie down, and the pair had a good tussle with Minaun coming out on top by a neck.

The 4/9 favourite Military Style came off the bridle at halfway and could only keep on at the same pace back in third.

A half-sister to two winners, the winner was acquired for E8,000 at Goffs last autumn.

It was a quick double for Chris Hayes after Miss Amulet in the first, and the jockey also had a brace of winners yesterday at Naas.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "I'm delighted with her, we've always really liked her and she is a lovely filly. Cormac Farrell recommended her for us back in March.

"I'm delighted for her owner Steve McCarthy and it is his and my first Group winner on the flat; he previously had Aerclub with us and we replaced him with this lady and she looks an able deputy.

"Hopefully she will keep progressing and Chris (Hayes) really liked her. She will definitely stay further and is from a really good Loder family.

"She has a Moyglare entry and is growing and maturing all the time so we won't be in a mad panic anywhere."

July 01, 2020

Henry de Bromhead has enjoyed plenty of success Flat and jumps since racing resumed and 6/4 favourite Bold Enough was another winner for the Knockeen, Co.Waterford handler in the MansionBet It’s Not Rocket Science Maiden Hurdle.

Always handy under Rachael Blackmore, the five-year-old was strongly pressed by Hesamanofhisword from the third-last flight, but he jumped the second-last well and drew away from that point for a four length success.

The ease in the ground was never going to trouble the son of Jeremy, second to the highly-regarded Ballyadam in a point-to-point, and fourth in his first run over hurdles behind subsequent Grade 1 winner and Supreme fourth Asterion Forlonge at Naas in January.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "We said after his last run that we would put him away and wait for the new novice season, but we didn't think it would be this long!

"I'm delighted to get him going and he had to do it the hard way as it looked he was taken on for the whole race.

June 22, 2020

Email Rose battled back gamely to get his head in front again close home and land the geldings maiden hurdle at Roscommon this afternoon, giving Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore a double on the card.

The eventual winner had jumped into the lead two from home but was soon tackled by Onlyhuman in the two-mile contest.

There was nothing between the pair over the last but Onlyhuman looked to be getting the better of things on the run-in when edging ahead.

Rachael Blackmore conjured another effort from Email Rose, however, as the 11/8 favourite stuck his head out close home to secure a neck success.

The French-bred, a €150,000 purchase as a store, had been runner-up twice last season.

Blackmore said:- "He battled back really well there. He was knocking on the door last season but also disappointed a few days.

“We thought he was a better horse than that but he has got his head in front today."

June 24, 2020

It proved plain sailing for Telmesomethinggirl in the opener at Roscommon as the even-money shot made all to open her 'track' account.

The Stowaway mare had cost £150,000 after winning a point-to-point in February 2019 and was placed once from three starts over hurdles last season.

She made no mistake today, bouncing out in front under Rachael Blackmore, and easily disposing of her rivals.

Henry de Bromhead's charge had the others in trouble turning for home and asserted from the second last.

Blackmore only had to shake up her mount on the run-in to post an easy 12 length victory over Moll Dote.

The winning rider:- "We always thought a lot of her at home and things went right for us today, she is a lovely mare going forward. The ground is lovely out there."

June 22, 2020

There was plenty of talk about Gordon Elliott's Jawbox in the concluding bumper at Limerick but he was cut down by Henry de Bromhead's Train Hill.

Punters sent Jawbox off the 11/10 favourite and he got a dream run up the inner to assume the lead two furlongs out.

Jamie Codd sent him about his business along the rail and the pair looked to be in charge.

Train Hill was starting to motor on the outside, however, and was ridden by David Roche to chase Jawbox down in the final furlong.

Jawbox stuck to his task but Train Hill really knuckled down and grabbed him in the closing stages to score by a length and a quarter at 9/1. There was plenty of money around for him as he opened at 16s.

Blackpoint picked up third-place money at 12/1 a further five and a half lengths adrift.

David Roche said: "My father (John) bred him and broke him and did the whole lot with him. For him to win, for mum (Ann) and dad, is brilliant.

"He's grand but he'll improve a good bit for it too."

Regarding a possible future sale, he added: "I'd take watch and all!

"He is really good to jump; I was going to run him in a point-to-point in the spring and he'd go on most grounds, but doesn't want really heavy stuff."

June 17, 2020

Hurricane Cliff held the late charge of newcomer Great House to land the first division of the nine-furlong maiden at Gowran this afternoon.

Henry de Bromhead's charge looked to have the race in the bag having hit the front two furlongs out and stretched clear passing the furlong marker.

Billy Lee's mount kept up his gallop to the line but was pressed close home by the well-backed Great House (10/11f) as he started to motor late on to get within a half a length.

The winner had also attracted support, from 5/1 into 10/3. The Canford Cliffs gelding was making his first outing since finishing second at Limerick just over a year ago.

De Bromhead said:- “He’d a lovely run last year but unfortunately he got hurt after that. He’s come back and has been working really well. 

“We were hoping to see that today and I’m delighted for the syndicate which is headed up by Angus Potterton from Savills. It’s nice to see him get something back after all his sponsorship. 

“I stuck him in the Nasrullah (Handicap) this morning so we’ll see what mark he gets. He’s a big scopey horse and I bought him from Hugh Bleahen as a yearling. 

“We’ll keep him on the Flat for the moment. He also worked nicely in a schooling hurdle earlier in the year.”

June 11, 2020

Annexation shrugged aside a wide draw out in stall fifteen to stylishly make a winning start for Henry de Bromhead in division two of the Download The BoyleSports App Handicap at Gowran.

The keen-going ex-Ed Dunlop runner was soon up there forcing the pace under Wayne Lordan, and those that backed the winner from 13/2 into 5/1 would have been happy with the jockey’s body language from early in the straight.

Lordan asked for more from the previous eight times raced maiden, from under two furlongs out.

A 240,000 Euro breeze-up horse in 2018, the Wootton Bassett gelding asserted from over a furlong out.

He’d joined current connections for 18K and that looks a nice investment given the way Annexation crossed the line, two and a half lengths in front of Accladora.

"I'm delighted for the South Ros Syndicate (owners) who are headed by Gerry Petit and all the credit goes to Paul Roche who found him for us in Newmarket," said de Bromhead.

"He has a good pedigree, and we're hoping to go hurdling eventually. He'll stay on the flat for the time being but he has schooled and jumped well."

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March 10, 2020

Honeysuckle got the better of Benie Des Dieux in an titanic tussle for the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The Willie Mullins-trained Benie Des Dieux claimed the Grade One prize in 2018 and looked sure to follow up 12 months ago until suffering a crashing fall at the final flight.

Having since won Grade Ones at Punchestown and Auteuil before making a foot-perfect comeback in the Galmoy Hurdle at Gowran Park, she was the 4-6 favourite to regain her crown, despite facing a serious rival in Henry de Bromhead’s 9-4 shot Honeysuckle.

Unbeaten in seven previous starts, including victory in last month’s Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown, the six-year-old travelled strongly for much of the way under Rachael Blackmore, but looked at the mercy of Benie Des Dieux in the hands of a motionless Paul Townend racing down the hill.

However, Honeysuckle quickened the better of the two rounding the home turn to steal the advantage, and try as she might, Benie Des Dieux could not get back on terms in the straight, with half a length separating the pair at the line.

De Bromhead said: “They are two amazing ladies. It was a great bit of race-riding to nip up the inside when Paul opted to go wide and it looks like it won her the race. Rachael had to sit and suffer for a bit, but when the gap appeared she was gone.

March 10, 2020

Prolific mare Put The Kettle On showed the boys the way home in the Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy.

Despite having won four of her previous five starts over fences, the Henry de Bromhead-trained six-year-old was a 16-1 chance on what was her first competitive appearance since landing the Arkle Trophy Trial over the course and distance in November.

Ridden by Aidan Coleman, Put The Kettle On was always close to the pace and was in front rounding the home turn, with Fakir D’oudairies her nearest pursuer.

The latter did himself no favours by walking through the second fence from the finish — and while he tried his very best to bridge the gap racing up the hill, Put The Kettle On refused to bend and passed the post a length and a half to the good.

Rouge Vif ran a fine race in third, with the winner’s stablemate Notebook — the 5-2 favourite on the strength of successive Grade One wins at Leopardstown — ultimately disappointing.

De Bromhead said: “Aidan was brilliant on her and said she just attacked every fence. She had course and distance form in the book, so you couldn’t underestimate her, but obviously Notebook was our more fancied runner.

March 08, 2020

Capuccimix justified strong market confidence, as he made all in the opener at Naas this afternoon, the Enjoy The Cheltenham Festival With MansionBet Beginners Chase.

A winner of a maiden hurdle at Clonmel last year, the Henry de Bromhead trained grey was second on his debut over fences at Navan in December and again filled the runner-up spot on his most recent outing at Gowran.

Available at 10/11 in early shows, the Robcour owned seven-year-old opened on-course at 8/13, before going off the clear market leader at 2/5.

In front throughout under Robbie Power, he had matters under control from the second last and despite an untidy jump at the final fence, he went on to score decisively by eleven lengths.

March 07, 2020

Bob Olinger looks another exciting prospect for Robcour and Henry de Bromhead after blitzing his seven rivals in the ‘Doc’s Bumper’ Point-to-Point Flat Race at Gowran Park. 

The Sholokhov gelding won a Turtulla maiden in very good style for Pat Doyle last November and certainly added to his reputation when making all here. 

Patrick Mullins oozed confidence on the 6/4 chance and was virtually motionless in the final furlong as the five-year-old stretched clear to score by ten lengths.

March 05, 2020

The veteran Kavanaghs Corner gained a third career victory when staying on best in the closing stages to land the Urlingford Rated Chase at Thurles.

Henry de Bromhead's charge was sent to post a 5/1 shot in the extended two-and-a-half mile contest and was held up in the early stages by Daniel Holden.

The 11-year-old took closer order going to the third last and was one of five in with a shout at the penultimate fence.

Three jumped the last upsides as the eventual winner tackled long-time leader Western Sea and Crazyheart.

Kavanaghs Corner hit the front on the run-in and despite wandering a touch late on he had plenty in hand to beat Crazyheart by two-and-three-quarter lengths.

The winning rider said:- "I rode him in Limerick and he switched off lovely and it was the same today.

March 03, 2020

Gigginstown House Stud were on the mark for the second race in succession at Navan with Punitive defying top-weight in the Athboy Handicap Hurdle.

Aided by Hugh Morgan’s seven pound claim, the Henry de Bromhead-trained victor followed up on his course and distance success from January 18th.

Scarlet And Dove took the preceding mares maiden hurdle for Gigginstown, and here Punitive was similarly always to the fore.

He led, made slight mistakes at the second and the seventh, and the 5/1 favourite was headed entering the straight.

Pushed along and disputing three out, the Shantou gelding was ridden and led again after two out. The six-year-old stayed on well on the run-in to beat Even Flight by three lengths.

“It's nice to get back on him again and I have to thank Gigginstown and Mr de Bromhead for the opportunity,” said Morgan

March 05, 2020

Eklat De Rire produced a powerful front-running performance to land the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle at Thurles in good style.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding was sent to post a 6/5 shot for the contest, run over just shy over two-miles-and-seven furlongs.

Rachael Blackmore bounced out in front on her mount and the Saddex gelding had his rivals at work before the home straight.

All About Joe stayed on to give chase going to the final flight but never looked like pegging back the front-runner who only had to be shaken up briefly on the run-in for a cosy six length success.

The winner had chased home Foxy Jacks on his 'track' debut at Punchestown last month having cost £110,000 after landing a point-to-point at Dromahane last November.

Blackmore said afterwards:- "It was a very nice performance. He came on a lot from his run the last day and he is a really nice horse going forward.

February 22, 2020

Jason The Militant hung on at the line to cause a 25/1 shock in the Paddy Power Betting Shop Novice Hurdle at Naas this afternoon.

The Sans Frontieres gelding was given a fine front-running ride by Rachael Blackmore as he gained a narrow victory in the Grade 2 event.

Andy Dufresne was sent to post a 6/5 shot in the contest, over just shy of two miles, but came under pressure jumping the second last.

Jason The Militant got his rivals off the bridle there and it was Beacon Edge who was the big danger going to the final flight.

A slight mistake at the last by that rival gave Henry de Bromhead's charge the slight advantage and he stuck his head out gamely on the run to the line, clinging on by a nose at the post.

February 15, 2020

Trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore combined to record a double at Gowran today as Spyglass Hill continued the pair's excellent form with victory in the Download The BoyleSports App Beginners Chase.

De Bromhead and Blackmore have combined for five Grade 1 wins already this season and having bagged a fourth Grade 2 success with Chris's Dream in the 35-minutes earlier 2.54pm Red Mills Chase, doubled their score for the afternoon with Spyglass Hill.

The son of Morozov survived hairy jumping errors at the third last and last fences but eventually beat runner-up Milan Native by six lengths.

Afterwards De Bromhead stated “he looked to be going well in Naas and obviously fell and it looks like he's more-or-less learned his lesson from there hopefully.

“He jumped really well and was clever today. Rachael took her time and she said he picked up well up the straight.

February 01, 2020

The Henry de Bromhead-trained Honeysuckle confirmed her star status when running out a game winner of the PCI Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown this afternoon.

Punters latched on to the unbeaten mare in the two-mile feature on day one of the Dublin Racing Festival as she was backed into 8/11 favourite having been a 13/8 shot in the morning.

Rachael Blackmore, recording a Grade 1 double on the day following the earlier win of Notebook, tracked front-running stable-mate Petit Mouchoir for much of the race.

She let the daughter of Sulamani move up to tackle the grey going to the second last but was slightly untidy at that flight.

It didn't halt her momentum however as she kicked for home turning into the straight. The six-year-old gained a couple of lengths advantage going to the last but jumped left there letting Petit Mouchoir back in with a chance.

February 01, 2020

Notebook dug deep to emerge on top after a protracted duel with Cash Back in the ERSG Arkle Chase at Leopardstown this afternoon.

The two-mile-one contest developed into a match from the second last as Notebook jumped up to just about head the front-running Cash Back.

The later was soon back on terms and the pair settled down to fight it out going to the final fence.

Notebook had a marginal advantage jumping the last and found plenty on the run to the line, for Rachael Blackmore, to hold his rival at bay by three-parts-of-a-length.

The 5/4 favourite was recording a Grade 1 double at the track having also taking the Racing Post Novice Chase at Christmas.

January 26, 2020

Honeysuckle really put her name in the spotlight when landing the Eco Friendly Cups Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle 12 months ago and the same connections of Kenny Alexander, Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore were again on the mark in this Grade 3 feature at Fairyhouse as Minella Melody landed the spoils. 

The daughter of Flemensfirth was close to the pace-setting Colreevy throughout this 2m2f event, and just held a slight advantage over that rival approaching the final flight. 

A better jump at the last settled the issue and the 100/30 chance kept on strongly to beat 11/4 favourite Colreevy by two and a half lengths.

January 18, 2020

Henry de Bromhead doubled his Navan score when last season’s star staying novice hurdler, Minella Indo (2/5), won his first event over racecourse fences in the Eco Friendly Cups Beginners Chase.

Following on from stable companion Punitive’s win thirty five minutes earlier, most of this three miler went very smoothly for Minella Indo and Rachael Blackmore.

She kept the former point-to-point winner wide on the front end, and the Beat Hollow gelding seemed to really enjoy himself jumping well.

Upped to three miles from the two and a half he contested when second on chase debut behind Laurina at Gowran, Minella Indo had to work from the last to see off 7/1 second favourite Captain Cj by a length and a half.

January 18, 2020

About four and a quarter lengths separated the first five home and after an exciting conclusion the RacingTV FREE For A Month Handicap Hurdle at Navan went to top-weight Punitive.

Under Hugh Morgan, the Gigginstown House Stud-owned and Henry de Bromhead-trained 4/1 victor led and disputed.

The son of Shantou made a slight mistake three out and he was ridden at the next.

Edging ahead before the last, Punitive kept on well on the run-in, pressed close home before seeing off Sir Bob by half a length.

It was a length and three parts then to 11/10 favourite Cherif De L’Isle in third.

January 12, 2020

Le Musigny gave his trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore a measure of compensation following an earlier defeat in the Grade 2 feature race as he caused a minor upset to win the concluding Racing TV Club Day Today Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown today.

De Bromhead and Blackmore were narrowly beaten in today's featured Grade 2 Sky Bet Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle with free-going runner-up Captain Guinness but did leave with a winner on the card as well-bred Le Musigny defied a 603 days absence to win on racecourse debut.

The French bred son of Anzillero is from a high-class French family and is a half-brother to Grade 1 winners Le Richebourg and Grands Crus and was unsuccessful for previous handler Colin Bowe in two point-to-points in April and May 2018.

The six year old was a race-day non-runner twice in 2019, firstly in a Kilbeggan bumper in June (due to a stone bruise) and again at Leopardstown on St Stephens Day (due to a vaccination error).

Today Le Musigny, backed from 14/1 to 12/1 on track, scored a half-length win over The Broghie Man and afterwards De Bromhead reported “he’s a horse we’ve always liked and always worked like a good horse but he’s just taken a bit of time.

December 29, 2019

Leading owner Michael O'Leary has had a Christmas bonanza and registered his 18th winner of the four-day festive spell with Eleazar Des Neiges landing the Ryans Cleaning Event Specialists Maiden Hurdle at Limerick today for trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Hugh Morgan.

The lowly race was confined to horses which had not finished first, second or third from at least three previous runs but nonetheless attracted many leading owners and trainers.

O'Leary's Gigginstown House Stud owned Eleazar Des Neiges was joined by the Gordon Elliott trained Zambezi Fix, running in the colours of the Cheveley Park Stud while Champion Trainer Willie Mullins ran the John Magnier owned K'Chou Du Pecos Aa.

In the race Eleazar Des Neiges proved two and a half lengths too strong fro runner-up La Feline with 2/1 favourite Zambezi Fix managing just fourth and K'Chou Du Pecos Aa fifth.

Winning trainer De Bromhead was at Leopardstown where Cobbler's Way won a maiden hurdle and following Eleazar Des Neiges win, jockey Morgan reported “he jumped and travelled super and galloped the whole way to the line. He is improving all the time.”

December 29, 2019

Cobbler's Way got the cleaner jump at the last and powered home on the run-in to grab the spoils in the Pigsback.com Maiden Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The Oscar gelding cut out the running in the two-and-a-half contest but 11/10 favourite The Big Getaway loomed large heading down the final flight.

A blunder at the last put him on the back foot and Cobbler's Way strode on, under Rachael Blackmore, to record a length-and-three-quarter success over the running-on Sempo.

The winner had been second to Andy Dufresne on his hurdling debut at Navan last month.

“Rachael got a great jump at the last and I don't think she had quite gone for him yet,” said de Bromhead

December 28, 2019

Fully Charged brought up a quick-fire double in Limerick for Henry de Bromhead and Hugh Morgan.

The 11/8 favourite led into the straight in the two mile five maiden hurdle and had the chasing Silk Worm off the bridle at the second last.

The grey gelding powered clear before the last and jumped it nicely to win as he pleased by 22 lengths.

Silk Worm was a remote second at 20/1 and she was eight and a half lengths clear of Soi Cowboy (25/1).

Hugh Morgan said: “He was a lovely ride to get and it was great for him to go and do it that easy. I didn’t realise how far in front I was until going past the line.

December 28, 2019

Jason The Militant continued Henry de Bromhead's fine Christmas with a game success in the two mile maiden hurdle at Limerick.

Hugh Morgan's mount picked up the lead approaching five out, but was strongly pressed by both You Can Call Me Al and General Counsel, as the race hotted up with two flights to negotiate.

Jason The Militant got away best from that hurdle as General Counsel was less than fluent and You Can Call Me Al was tapped for toe.

General Counsel surged alongside, however, at the last and got his head fractionally in front on the run-in. 

Jason The Militant wasn't to be denied, though as he rallied on the inside close home to prevail by a neck at 4/1.

December 27, 2019

A Plus Tard (4/1, from 8s earlier in the day) was fancied by plenty and duly turned over Chacun Pour Soi in the (8/15 fav) in the Paddy’s Rewards Club “Loyalty’s Dead, Live For Rewards” Chase. 

A second Grade One winner of the Festival for Henry De Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore, last season’s Cheltenham Novice Handicap winner came on appreciably from his run behind Ballyoisin at Navan and kept on strongly from the last to finish three and a quarter lengths ahead of the market leader, who was having his first start of the winter.

Ordinary World (33/1) was another six and a half lengths back in third, with perennial visitor Simply Ned a distant fourth. 

The winner tried three miles in the spring when third to Delta Work at Punchestown, but showed plenty of pace here over this stiff 2m1f.

"He had some great runs last year as a novice, said winning trainer Henry de Bromhead, and I was happy with his first run back this season.

December 26, 2019

Notebook maintained his unbeaten record over fences with a convincing victory in the Racing Post Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

Having won twice at Punchestown, Notebook had no trouble stepping up to Grade 1 company, in the process taking the scalp of Fakir d'Oudairies and Laurina.

Given a confident ride by Rachael Blackmore, Notebook (7-1) travelled well throughout as Djingle set the pace.

Making her move after the third-last fence, Blackmore sent Henry de Bromhead’s six-year-old to the front at two out, from Royal Rendezvous and Fakir D’oudairies.

Those two got close, which resulted in Mark Walsh briefly losing an iron on the latter.

December 26, 2019

Aspire Tower moved towards the head of ante-post lists for the JCB Triumph Hurdle following a dominant front-running display in the Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown.

A high-class performer on the Flat for Richard Hannon and latterly Steve Gollings, the son of Born To Sea made a smart start to his jumping career with Henry de Bromhead at Punchestown last month.

Ridden from the front by Rachael Blackmore, the well-backed 15-8 favourite showed signs of his inexperience early on, but readily pulled clear from the home turn to land this Grade 2 by 18 lengths.

Paddy Power and Betfair cut de Bromhead’s youngster to 7-1 joint favourite from 20-1 for the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March, while BoyleSports go 8/1 joint favourite with Gary Moore’s Goshen.

De Bromhead said: “I thought he did it really impressively. He went a really good gallop and jumped great.

December 20, 2019

Paris Duvet got off the mark at the eleventh attempt as Henry de Bromhead’s 61-rated filly won the Crowne Plaza Race & Stay Maiden in the colours of the Waterford trainer’s wife Heather at Dundalk.

Confined to riders who had not ridden more than ten winners under any N.H. Rules or Rules of Racing from 24th March, 2019 to 17th December, 2019 inclusive, this mile event provided a welcome opportunity to some in the weigh-room.

Mark Enright seized his chance nicely on the grey, and she beat another grey of the fairer sex, Annie B, by two lengths.

“I haven't actually rode for Henry since winning on Due Reward and hopefully he'll give me a few more now!” said Enright.

“I've missed most of the racing since and this is nice on my first night back since the Troytown.

December 15, 2019

There was drama late on in the opening Irish Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle at Navan as hotpot Blackbow crashed out at the last, leaving the way clear for Captain Guinness to make a winning debut.

Blackbow was sent to post a 2/9 shot for the two-miler and despite running a touch keenly at the head of affairs seemed to have matters in control going to the final flight, with a couple of lengths advantage.

He stepped at the hurdle, however, and slithered to the ground. Thankfully both the horse and Paul Townend were quickly back to their feet.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained Captain Guinness had moved through promisingly to challenge for second at the final flight when soon presented with the lead.

Rachael Blackmore's mount, a 20/1 shot, ran on strongly in the closing stages to post a seven-length winning margin over Belfast Banter.

December 10, 2019

On her second outing for the Henry de Bromhead yard Une Lavandiere struck at odds of 14/1 in the New Year’s Day Early Bird Tickets At tramoreraces.ie Mares Handicap Hurdle.

The following race celebrates the achievements of de Bromhead’s father Harry.

If that wasn’t enough reason to call Une Lavandiere’s win appropriate, the fact that the Camphor Syndicate own her surely was, as that grouping includes some of those involved at the County Waterford track.

Twice a winner when with Noel Meade, Une Lavandiere here made all for Rachael Blackmore, and she ended up comfortably accounting for Isabel’s Gold by fifteen lengths.

“It was a brilliant ride from Rachael. She went out and set a really good pace and it was what we hoped she would do," said de Bromhead.

December 08, 2019

Minella Melody (4/9 fav) is one of several classy mares owned by Kenny Alexander , and the daughter of Flemensfirth took the Listed Voler La Vedette Mares’ Novice Hurdle under Robbie Power. 

She was always to the fore in this almost 2m4f event, disputing with eventual runner-up Mount Ida (9/2) before edging ahead of that one on the run-in for a three quarters of a length verdict, with Ard Abhainn closing on the front pair late on to be another length and a quarter back in third. 

A point-to-point winner at Boulta from the John Nallen academy, the winner landed a Gowran bumper and was then twice Graded-placed in bumpers at Aintree and Punchestown in the spring. 

An easy winner of her maiden hurdle at Cork last month, she wasn’t as flashy in success here but showed a willing attitude up the home straight.

“We won which was great but she was fairly workmanlike, said winning trainer Henry de Bromhead.

December 07, 2019

Rachael Blackmore partnered her first winner in the famous JP McManus colours and it was an important victory as Minella Times landed the €50,000 Foxrock Handicap Chase at Navan. 

Ben Dundee, patiently ridden by Davy Russell after a blunder at the second fence, looked set to score when travelling well to lead two out but Minella Times found more under pressure on the run-in. 

The six-year-old Oscar gelding kept on strongly at the end of this 2m4f test to score by three quarters of a length, with Glenloe ten lengths further behind in third.

​

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said, “I'm delighted with that. Rachael was brilliant on him, he jumped great and really toughed it out at the end. It's a fantastic pot. He has some really nice form and it's brilliant to get it.

“He's in the Paddy Power so we'll see. I'm not sure what the penalty is. If he got into it we could consider it but having said that he's had a tough enough race there so we'll see. We haven't looked a whole lot further than that.

“He's shown form over different trips and ran well the last day over three miles in Clonmel, where he was unlucky. He seems to be versatile."

December 05, 2019

Henry de Bromhead doubled up at Clonmel this afternoon when Sailingtobyzantium led home a one-two for the yard in the concluding amateur maiden hurdle.

The daughter of Gold Well had been placed in two point-to-points but had fallen early on her 'track' debut in a maiden hurdle at Thurles last month.

Stable-mate Arahecan, a 5/1 shot, had hit the front going to the fifth last flight but was passed by 25/1 chance Sailingtobyzantium early in the straight.

The eventual winner looked a touch green, under Tom Hamilton, and lost her lead again at the second last.

Hamilton got her back on terms going to the last, however and she secured a narrow lead over the final flight, going on to post a three-parts-of-a-length win over Arahecan.

December 05, 2019

A fine leap at the last sealed the deal for Niccolai as she opened her account over fences in the second division of the beginners chase at Clonmel.

Henry de Bromhead's charge had finished sixth on her chase debut at Thurles last month and stepped up today to add to a hurdles success at Wexford back in March.

11/4 favourite Bitsandpieces was driven into the front turning for home in the two-miler but was joined going to the second last by Niccolai.

The Flemensfirth mare got the better jump at the last and, despite Rachael Blackmore losing an iron on the run-in, she went on to record a four-and-a-half length win at odds of 10/1.

​

“She jumped really well and I am delighted for (owners) the Schusters,” said the winning trainer.

“She got lost the last day, it was carnage and she got lost in the race and Rachael's main goal was to get her around. There were horses falling everywhere.

“It is a big step up for her and we'll see what the handicapper thinks and hopefully there might be a rated novice chase for her next. Most of her form is on soft and I am delighted with her jumping.”

Touch Of Oscar stayed on to grab the runner-up spot close home.

December 01, 2019

The money was down in a big way on Honeysuckle (9/10 from 5/4 on track and much bigger earlier) and she delivered in style in the Grade 1 BARONERACING.COM Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Owner Kenny Alexander has made his fortune in the gambling industry and the market was spot on regarding his daughter of Sulamani, on her second outing outside novice company.

Like Royal Bond hero Envoi Allen earlier, point-to-point graduate Honeysuckle now remains unbeaten after seven appearances in public.

Here under Rachael Blackmore Honeysuckle tracked the leaders, and she was closer in second three out.

She led approaching two out and soon ridden clear the odds-on favourite stayed on well on the run-in to comfortably beat Bacardys by nine lengths.

Going for four-in-a-row here, Apple’s Jade ended up four lengths back in third.

“She was brilliant and even I could enjoy it a bit. I couldn’t believe it when Rachael took a pull on her turning in considering the calibre of race she was in," said de Bromhead. 

“She pinged the second last and as Rachael said they always seem to get the last wrong but she got out over it and really powered to the line. 

“She’s a very professional mare and Rachael gets on really well with her. This is why we are all in it for a special mare like her. 

“She loves it here at Fairyhouse and we better go and find out now if she can go left-handed. 

“She’s entered over two miles and three at Leopardstown but I’m not sure if she will go there. The mares hurdle at Cheltenham will obviously be very high on her agenda and we might wait and give her a prep run before that.

Henry de Bromhead’s charge disputed the lead travelling well entering the straight.

December 29, 2019

Limerick's opening Limerick Welcomes 95 Stop Tour Maiden Hurdle today was confined to unplaced horses and was won by the Gigginstown House Stud owned Punitive, for trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Daniel Holden.

Fourth is the second-best finishing position in an unplaced horses' maiden hurdle and Punitive's previous fourth-placing, when beaten 20L by the third horse, in the same category race at Wexford in October qualified him to again compete in today's unplaced maiden.

Today jockey Holden was seen to good effect as he steered the son of Shantou, a E88,000 2017 Derby Sale purchase, to a battling head win over Moscowsowhat. 

De Bromhead wasn't present and afterwards Holden stated “he was behind the bridle the whole way around and you wouldn't know what you had under you because he'd never show you anything.

“As soon as he turned in he came alive and I was fairly confident but didn't think it would be so close. That is a big improvement for him looking at his previous runs and you'd have to be delighted with that.”

November 26, 2019

Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore doubled up in race two at Punchestown with the Gigginstown House Stud-owned Cavalry Master in the Betdaq Trading Tools Maiden Hurdle.

Following on from stable companion Aspire Tower in the opener, Cavalry Master led, and he was pushed along after two out.

Joined and strongly pressed before the last, the 8/1 victor was ridden to regain the lead at that flight.

Cavalry Master stayed on well inside the final furlong to beat eye-catching 40/1 shot Buddy Rich by three parts of a length.

Second favourite Sizing Pottsie was a length and a half back in third.

Market-leader Dlauro had no more to give from before the straight, weakening into 13th.

“He jumped brilliant and stayed at it really well. Rachael said that he was a bit green in front but I thought that she gave him a super ride. He’s improving all the time," said de Bromhead.

“He’s a big horse and obviously jumping fences will be his game. Hopefully he’ll keep progressing over hurdles. 

“The two and a half miles novice handicap at Leopardstown (Christmas meeting) could be a possibility.” 

November 24, 2019

Robbie Power continued his excellent run of form at Navan today as the Grand National and Gold Cup winning jockey won his first Ladbrokes Troytown Chase on the Henry De Bromhead trained, Brian Acheson owned Chris's Dream.

Both Chris's Dream's previous two chase wins, including a win in the Grade 2 Ten Up Novice Chase, were gained at the track and today the son of Mahler made a winning handicap chase debut to beat runner-up Fitzhenry by nine and a half lengths and maintain his 100% record at the Co Meath venue.

De Bromhead, Acheson and Power were each gaining first wins in the E100,000 feature race and Power has himself enjoyed a excellent run of eight winners in five days. 

Power's winning run began with a treble at Cheltenham on Wednesday, a winner at Thurles on Thursday, another at Ascot on Friday and steered a double at Haydock yesterday, including a Grade 1 win on Lostintranslation in the Betfair Chase.

Following today's race De Bromhead said “Brian (Acheson, owner through Robcour) suggested this race and it made a lot of sense. Robbie was brilliant on him and he’s a very good horse.

November 17, 2019

The cheers that greeted Put The Kettle On's success in the Racing Post-backed Arkle Trial at Cheltenham would not have been out of place at the festival itself, writes James Burn.

And that may be good practice for connections as they are dreaming of a return in March.

Trained by Henry de Bromhead, the five-year-old impressed at Prestbury Park on Sunday and Michael Dermody was buzzing.

He part-owns the winner with his brother John, who was speechless after losing his voice, their mother Mary and Keith Phelan.

"We knew she had a chance because she's a great jumper," Michael Dermody said. "I know she was coming in under the radar against some fancied horses, but we knew she had a chance.

"We come over every year and to have a runner, let alone a winner like that, is beyond our wildest dreams. She wasn't in any of the ante-post betting for the Arkle, but she will be now!"

November 16, 2019

Notebook surged clear in the closing stages to run out an impressive winner of the Elliott Group Craddockstown Novice Chase at Punchestown.

Henry de Bromhead saddled two leading fancies in the two-mile Grade 2 contest and it was the Gigginstown gelding who proved the class act.

Rachael Blackmore was in the saddle, aboard the German-bred, and he raced prominently throughout.

The 11/4 shot moved through to dispute with 5/2 favourite Eclair De Beaufeu four from home and was driven into a narrow lead two out.

Notebook asserted before the final fence and big jump at the last sealed matters. He galloped on strongly on the run-in to post a five-length winning margin.

November 07, 2019

Much to the relief of favourite backers the Thurles.ie Maiden Hurdle changed markedly from before the last. Royal Thief (11/10) powered home to win in the hands of Rachael Blackmore.

Third and sixth in bumpers since debuting with a hurdles third placing at Naas in February, there was big confidence behind the Fame And Glory gelding returning off a 188 day break.

Front-running Shanwalla, the second market choice, still looked in pole position to take this extended two and three quarter miler between the last two flights.

However Royal Thief, third at that stage, went into overdrive from before the last.

The five-year-old victor overcame an eighth flight mistake to ultimately prove a length and a quarter and three lengths superior to Oscar Montel and the aforementioned Shanwalla, after taking over on the run-in.

November 03, 2019

Trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore combined to win the opening two races at Cork today, completing the feat in the Paddy Power Onside App Mares Maiden Hurdle with last season's capable bumper performer Minella Melody.

Previously placed twice at Graded level in bumpers at the Aintree and Punchestown festivals, Minella Melody today made all when justifying 4/6 favouritism and beating Earthiest Words by two and three parts of a length.

De Bromhead and Blackmore had earlier won the opening race with Tiger Voice and following his second winner, De Bromhead stated “she (Minella Melody) did it the hard way, jumped brilliant and Rachael was delighted with her and she will come on plenty for the run.

“I thought it was a good race going in to it and all week I was wondering did I have her fit enough. 

“She'll come on plenty for it if she did happen to win here today, I was hoping to aim for the 2m4f Listed Voler La Vedette Novice Hurdle at Punchestown in December. There are a lot of good mares around at the moment but hopefully we'll be there with them.”

October 31, 2019

Unfortunately Indian Music pulled up injured before the fourth last but for Rachael Blackmore and her many followers there was a happy outcome to the Clonmel Handicap Chase as she doubled up at Powerstown Park on Kavanaghs Corner.

Blackmore took the previous race on Tintangle for Gordon Elliott. In the card’s penultimate contest she was aboard Kavanaghs Corner for Henry de Bromhead.

The winner crossed Steer Clear’s path two out. Steer Clear ‘missed’ that obstacle and there was quickly a telling gap between the pair.

The eventual runner-up worked hard to peg Kavanaghs Corner back on the run-in but on outing two for the Waterford yard he held on well enough by a length and a quarter.

"It was a super ride from Rachael. She did a great job on him and got him settled and then he was able to get into the race handy enough," said de Bromhead.

October 27, 2019

Plan of Attack won impressively over fences at Aintree with Aiden Coleman on board.

October 27, 2019

Dancing On My Own dominated from the front in the Casey Cattle Slats Maiden Hurdle over an extended two miles in Wexford.

Henry de Bromhead's charge has a fourth in a Grade 1 in his locker and looked a cut above his rivals in this company and so it proved.

He had the pursuers toiling off the home bend and increased the gap two out. From there he won as he pleased and eased 28 lengths clear at the line with Rachael Blackmore in the plate.

Those who backed the 8/13 favourite didn't have a single moment's worry. Notice To Close came in a remote second at 20/1 with Champagne Paddy third at 7/1.

Henry de Bromhead said: “We're delighted with that. It's nice to see him come back to the form he showed last year.

October 16, 2019

Jan Maat avoided the early drama in the four runner Grade 3 Ladbrokes Acca Buck House Novice Chase at Punchestown today as owner Gigginstown House Stud and jockey Rachael Blackmore combined for doubles on the Henry De Bromhead trained winner.

Five to four favourite Daly Tiger raced with a little exuberance under Mark Walsh in the early stages and had improved to lead at the third fence before his saddle began to slip forwards. By the fourth fence the partnership was in front but was also in trouble with Walsh, now riding without irons and a badly slipped saddle, pulling Daly Tiger up before the fifth.

Swordsman was giving chase in third place at that fourth fence but himself crashed out leaving the other pair, new leader Jan Maat and chasing Cool Colonnade to complete. Jan Maat was never put under any serious pressure by Cool Colonnade with seven and a half lengths separating the pair at the line.

Afterwards De Bromhead said “obviously it was made a bit easier but he jumped great and it’s lovely to win a Grade 3. He’s done really well and deserved to win one. He came up against Wicklow Brave a couple of times, and hopefully he’ll keep progressing over fences. 

“The Craddockstown is a possibility but we’ll see what everyone wants to do; he has been busy and on the go since the summer. Ground would also be important to him.”

October 16, 2019

The Henry de Bromhead trained Notebook ran out a comfortable winner of the opener at Punchestown this afternoon, the Ladbrokes Where The Nation Plays Beginners Chase. 

A winner of a point-to-point at Dromahane when trained by John Nallen, the German bred son of Samum since claimed a maiden hurdle at Tramore on New Year's Day.

Second in a Grade 3 at Thurles in February, the six-year-old bay was well-fancied to make a winning start over the larger obstacles today, going off the clear 5/4 favourite.

Settled in second by Rachael Blackmore, he improved to lead from three out and extended his advantage away from the last, going on to score by two and three parts of a length.

Eclair De Beaufeu (7/2), who like the winner is owned by Gigginstown House Stud, filled the runner-up spot under Jack Kennedy for Gordon Elliott, while Advantage Point (10/3) was eleven lengths back in third.

October 13, 2019

Spyglass Hill secured his first success in the David Fitzgerald Memorial Handicap Hurdle at Limerick.

Hugh Morgan was content to track Theatre World in a close second in this three miler before the pair assumed the lead over the sixth.

They went for home after the penultimate flight and held a good cushion over Theatre World approaching the last.

Spyglass Hill wasn't for stopping and kept on well to post victory by seven lengths at 6/1.

Theatre World took the runner-up berth at 4/1 with nothing coming out of the chasing pack.

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Fit To Be Tied (25/1) finished best of the rest in third, beaten 12 lengths by the winner.

Henry de Bromhead said: "We were going chasing but we thought he was entitled to one more go at a hurdle so it was nice to get it.

"He was very immature last year and the penny is only now starting to drop with him. I had a concern fitness-wise but he had done plenty work and was pretty straight.

"Hugh said he got an easy lead in front and the horse really enjoyed it and it all worked well."

October 03, 2019

Raya Time opened his account in fine style when taking the Kilmore Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel for Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore. 

The grey gelding took a Killarney bumper in very convincing fashion for Sam Curling last year and was placed a number of times over hurdles last season for current connections. 

The evens favourite was sent to the front after four out by Blackmore and went clear approaching the straight before galloping on strongly to score by 12 lengths.

September 20, 2019

Henry de Bromhead's Ordinary World, who has been extensively campaigned in Graded company, was a comfortable winner of the Eamon Sheridan Groundworks Chase at Ballinrobe.

The market fully expected him to relish this task as he went off 1/2 favourite to account for his four rivals.

Once Rachael Blackmore steered him into the lead before the third last the result looked inevitable.

He wasn't fluent at the second last but stayed on well and outgunned Cloudy Morning (7/1) by two and three quarter lengths.

Rachael Blackmore, who arrived back in Dublin at 9am after she was out of luck riding Bedrock at Belmont Park in the US yesterday, said: "He's been very consistent and it was just great to get his head in front today."

September 14, 2019

Hugh Morgan continues to impress in the saddle, and rode his eighth winner of the campaign aboard Henry de Bromhead’s Or Jaune De Somoza (14/1) in the Charlie Chute Memorial Handicap Chase. 

The French-bred led from an early stage and, after losing momentum two out, jumped the last well and ran on to defeat Ballyegan Hero (7/1) and Seskin Flyer (25/1) by a length and three quarters and a head. 

The 3/1 favourite Black Scorpion, having travelled well to the home turn, faded out of contention to finish fifth. 

The winner had won a beginners’ chase at Fairyhouse in April, and this was just his second start in handicap company. 

“He got a bit tight to the second last, said the winning rider Hugh Morgan.

September 11, 2019

Trainer Henry De Bromhead emulated the 1996 Guinness Kerry National win of his father Harry by winning this year's renewal with Poker Party, whose rider Rachael Blackmore was recording her first ever winner at the Co Kerry racecourse.

Poker Party was patiently ridden by Blackmore and while leader Internal Transfer set a brisk pace from halfway, that runner predictably couldn't maintain the gallop and was headed at the second last by Poker Party.

Three horses, winner Poker Party, Ravenhill and Shantou Village, raced to the final fence with chances but Robbie Power became unbalanced as his reins opened on landing at the obstacle with Shantou Village and was unseated. 

On the run-in Poker Party maintained his narrow lead over Ravenhill to the line as Blackmore passed the post a Listowel winner for the first time, with a head success.

It was also a big-race success for owner Brian Acheson, of Robcour Investments, whose Na Trachtalai Abu filled also third place for good measure in the E200,000 contest.

Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead later commented “it’s fantastic to win the race, and to emulate my dad who won it with Bishops Hall.

“After the Galway Plate (where Poker Party unseated Blackmore at the second fence) we said we’d aim towards today but it was more get him around and try and get him a bit of confidence in these big handicaps.

“I felt we threw him into the Plate a bit and he got the fright of his life. In fairness to Brian (Acheson, owner) he said to Rachael if you can finish fourth or fifth I’ll be absolutely delighted.

“She got him jumping and he started to enjoy himself. He really stuck his head down at the finish and ground it out. 

“The Achesons are great supporters of the yard and it’s great to do it for them as well.”

Head runner-up Ravenhill's rider Denis O'Regan carried 1lb over-weight at 10st4lbs.

September 07, 2019

Put The Kettle On completed a four-timer at Wexford today as the Henry De Bromhead trained mare landed the Audrey McGrath Memorial Rated Novice Chase under jockey Hugh Morgan.

The daughter of Stowaway was initially successful this summer at Killarney in May before adding wins at Downpatrick in June and Tipperary in July. Today she survived a second last fence mistake when eventually beating runner-up Victoria Bay by two and a quarter lengths.

Afterwards De Bromhead said “I'm delighted for everyone involved in the syndicate and we are having some run with her and she is a lovely mare. 

“She jumped brilliant, Hugh was great on her and just at the last two she landed a bit funny after them but that was it. 

“We might have a look at the black-type chase at Tipperary in early October with her next.”

August 27, 2019

Moon Over Germany led home a 1, 2 for Henry de Bromhead in the feature at Ballinrobe this evening, the Hollymount Nursing Home Chase. 

A good winner of a Grade 3 at the Aintree Grand National Festival in April, the Philip Reynolds owned eight-year-old since finished fourth in another competitive contest at the Punchestown Festival.

Sent off the 15/8 favourite this evening, the chestnut victor was settled behind the leaders by Rachael Blackmore, as Listen Dear attempted to make all.

He improved to lead from the fifth last and while he was pressed by stable mate Ordinary World from two out, he kept on best on the run-in, going on to score by four and three parts of a length.

The runner-up was returned at 7/2 under Sean Flanagan, while The West's Awake was a further twenty-nine lengths away in third.

August 24, 2019

Riviera Sun bounced back to form in the three mile one Racingtv.com Handicap Chase at Kilbeggan to give Henry de Bromhead a double on the card.

Once the 10-year-old took over at the fifth fence for Hugh Morgan, he enjoyed himself in front and stayed on well to close out the race by two and a quarter lengths at 8-1.

Mossy White, who was a morning-price gamble, kept on for second at 8/1. He came in seven and a half lengths in front of Presentingprincess, the 7/2 favourite.

Henry de Bromhead said: “It was a super ride from Hugh and it's great to get one for Mr McManus. 

“He really battled well. Obviously his form had been a bit disappointing recently but I think just the change of tactics really helped him.

August 24, 2019

Visioman (5/6) was a fifth winning favourite in a row to oblige when staying on best by seven lengths for Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore in the Follow Kilbeggan Races On Facebook Beginners Steeplechase.

The 'jolly' was chased by Dassmyhoss over the last but that rival blundered badly enabling Visioman to stride clear by seven lengths.

Dassymhoss got back on an even keel to keep hold of second at 7/1. He was three and a quarter lengths ahead of Rock Road at 7/1.

Henry de Bromhead said: "He jumped really well. He had a nice run in Limerick the other day and saw it out well there, he was good.

“He jumps great. Rachael was brilliant on him and got him jumping really well.

August 23, 2019

Due Reward (4/5 into 4/6 on track) made a winning start over racecourse fences in the Plaza Hotel Beginners Chase at Killarney.

The Galway hurdle second placer had some experience in point-to-points at the beginning of his career, and typical of a Henry de Bromhead inmate he jumped assuredly with his attentions turned to this game under Rachael Blackmore.

Jack Dillinger (9/1 into 11/2) and Due Reward were battling it out when the latter got the final fence badly wrong.

That left Due Reward in control for what was ultimately a six and a half length win.

Twenty six lengths back in third were the dead-heating third placers, Ivanovich Gorbatov and The Holy One.

August 18, 2019

After her double on the Flat on Saturday evening, Rachael Blackmore made it four winners in total for her at the August Festival by taking the final day feature, the McCarthy’s Irish Bar Handicap Chase, for Henry de Bromhead on the 9/2 joint favourite Megalomaniac.

The Alfred Nobel six-year-old, winner of his only previous chase start over this course and distance in May, was always handy, hit the front before the second last and galloped on to beat the other 9/2 joint favourite Demi Plie by two lengths, with October Revoution (7/1) another four and a quarter lengths back in third place. 

Always a man to follow at his local track, it was rather surprisingly a first winner of the Festival for the delighted winning trainer de Bromhead who said: "He jumped brilliant and is built for that job. I went back to hurdles at Galway as I thought he was off a good mark but maybe it was a bit silly and since then I thought I should have gone for the Galway Blazers Chase instead. 

"He ended up here instead and it is great to win the feature race today and it is nicer to get one at our local track.

"Rachael was brilliant on him, he jumped brilliant and he is a massive horse who I think will keep improving.

July 26, 2019

J J Slevin carried the silks of the legendary Dawn Run to victory when winning on Boro Tari in the Liam Leacy Plumbing & Heating Ltd. Maiden Hurdle at Wexford.

The joint favourite shed her maiden tag on outing number five, and at the first attempt over jumps here, beating Get A Price and fellow market-leader Cotton End by three lengths and five lengths.

Henry de Bromhead’s winner was never far away before striking for home in the straight.

Said de Bromhead in the aftermath: "That was great, I'm delighted for everyone and she won nicely. JJ was happy with her. Her jumping was still a bit green but he gave her a super ride and I'm delighted. It's great to win in those colours. If she is half as good as one of the mares that was in them we will be going well!

"All the Hills are here and it's great. She might stay in mares novices now. Today was have a look and see how we'd get on. She is a nice big scopey mare and fences will crown her."

July 25, 2019

Ayr Of Elegance, on her thirteenth start over flights, got off the mark under NH rules by winning the mares’ rated novice hurdle at Limerick.

Henry De Bromhead’s winner (7s into 5/1 on course) added to four wins on the Flat when trained in Britain, by getting home by three quarters of a length from the rallying Inishbel (7/2).

She had looked in trouble at the end of the back straight, but responded well to Rachael Blackmore’s urgings to land the spoils. 

The 11/4 favourite Gotthenod was eased and pulled up by Cathal Landers before the second last, and the jockey later reported that his shoulder had popped out during the race and he was unable to be of assistance to the mare.

Winning rider Rachael Blackmore observed afterwards : “She likes to be passing horses and she stayed well. Henry’s horses are fit and well, and my job is easy.”

July 21, 2019

Deans Road spearheaded a treble for Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore in the Tipperary Town Plaza Plate Handicap Chase.

The top weight was driven out to account for persistent challenger Lucky Pat by two lengths at 7-1.

Mrs Lovett was three lengths further back in third at 5/1.

Henry de Bromhead said: “It’s been a brilliant day. I’m delighted for Mike Creed who has been patient.

"We struggled just to get him home in races but Rachael was brilliant on him and he jumped great for her.

“He really stuck at it today and he could go to Killarney next month for the two and a half mile handicap there.”

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July 15, 2019

Avenir D'Une Vie made all to land the three runner opener on Downpatrick's card for Henry de Bromhead.

The 6/5 joint favourite found more after the last to see off fellow 6/5 favourite Lethal Steps by two lengths.

Jockey Rachael Blackmore said: "He did it well in the end and he deserved to get that win today.

"He was jumping good and slick and it was great.

"The ground is very good."

July 05, 2019

Plan Of Attack survived a slight scare at the last to open his account over fences in the Neville Hotels Beginners Chase at Wexford.

Henry de Bromhead's charge had been runner-up to Go Another One on his chase debut at Clonmel last month and went one better this time.

Barry O'Neill sent his mount into the lead three from home in the three-mile-one contest and the 9/4 shot travelled best turning for home.

He looked to have matters in hand going to the last but there was a slight disagreement as O'Neill asked for a big leap and Plan Of Attack went low.

The Court Cave gelding responded well on the run-in to post a two-and-a-quarter length win over Smitty Bacall.

June 21, 2019

There was plenty to digest after the opening Future Ticketing Mares Hurdle at Down Royal which went the way of 6/4 joint favourite Havingagoodtime.

For Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore Havingagoodtime beat The Perch by twenty two lengths.

It could have been different though if Make My Heart Fly hadn't fallen when looking good in front two out. Her jockey Jack Kennedy was stood down for the day.

Meanwhile Havingagoodtime's fellow market-leader Run For Mary was let down by her jumping and was pulled up before the fourth last.

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"She was a bit free early on and the horse in front didn't do her any favours. She's a galloper and she'll stay galloping. Rachel (Blackmore) said she was keen after the other horse and did a bit much too soon but it worked out fine.

"Whether she would have won if if he hadn't fallen, I don't know.

"She's very lightly made but she has plenty of potential. She's a very light mare and she is actually hard to try and keep weight on.

"Henry (de Bromhead) is away and I don't know what he's going to do with her but probably Galway I would say would be the next one."

Alan Cody, travelling head lad to the de Bromhead stable said: "What can you say really, they are there to be jumped! He was unfortunate to go down.

June 17, 2019

Henry de Bromhead recorded his fourth winner in the last two days, as Conrad Hastings defied top-weight in the feature at Kilbeggan this evening, the Galway Races Galway Plate Trial Handicap Chase.

Successful over the course and distance in June of 2017, the eight-year-old failed to score in six starts last year, but was a fair eighth in the Galway Plate.

Last seen finishing fourth at the Listowel Harvest Festival, the son of Flemensfirth was sent off at 7/1 (from 8s) this evening in the colours of Clipper Logistics Group Ltd.

Settled behind the leaders by Rachael Blackmore, he made good progress into second from two out and led after the last, keeping on well under pressure on the long run-in (final fence omitted) to score by four and a half lengths.

June 16, 2019

It was three in a row for the Henry de Bromhead yard at Downpatrick as Killiney Court followed up on last year’s win in the Molson Coors Handicap Hurdle.

Hugh Morgan rode this fellow, and earlier Knockeen scorer Game Present, whilst it was Rachael Blackmore that was on the other de Bromhead victor, Put The Kettle On.

The treble came in at odds of about 187/1 and it was completed as Killiney Court routed them from the front, eventually with four and a quarter lengths in hand over Zoffalee.

They were all of thirty one lengths clear of the third placer Shimmer And Shine.

"He was good there again this year. He loves it around here and won here (in this race) last year. He just seems to come to life when he's up here and enjoys it, horses for courses," said Morgan.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity. Henry has been very good to me and supported me, so it's good to be able to reward him and thankfully I was able to do it today.

"That's my first double and my eighth winner. This is a lucky track for me as it is my third winner around here. I'll keep my head down and keep going."

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Rakhine State, trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

June 16, 2019

Rachael Blackmore returned from injury with a winner on Put The Kettle On to give Henry de Bromhead a double in Downpatrick.

The well backed 13/8 favourite kept it simple off the front in this extended two and a quarter mile mares' handicap hurdle. 

Dollys Destination served it up to her at the second last but the favourite readily moved clear on the run-in to post a seven-length success.

Dolly's Destination had to settle for second at 9/2.

Rachael Blackmore said: "It's very nice to be back. Henry's horses are on fire at the minute, so it's great to get back on.

"It has been a tough few weeks watching!"

Blackmore had been on the sidelines since a fall at Clonmel in mid-May, before returning to the saddle in Downpatrick yesterday.

de Bromhead took the preceding race on the card with Game Present, ridden by Hugh Morgan.

June 13, 2019

Roibeard bounced back to form to land the Fitzers Catering Rated Race under Wayne Lordan for Henry de Bromhead.

Successful at Gowran last summer, the son of Big Bad Bob ran a fine race to finish fourth in the valuable 'Northfields' Handicap at the Curragh on Champions Weekend.

His next two efforts were disappointing, and he again failed to make an impact on his return to action at Listowel earlier this month.

That Listowel effort was over flights, and back on the level this evening he was sent off an 11/1 chance (25s in early shows) in the colours of the Carrodown Syndicate.

Settled behind the leaders, he was short of room from the two furlong pole and needed to be switched to the outside

June 02, 2019

Cavalry Master upstaged the well-fancied Think Positive in the bumper at Kilbeggan, the Add Kilbegganraces On Snapchat Flat Race.

Trained by Henry de Bromhead, the grey son of Milan was eighth of thirteen behind Dinny Lacey on his debut at Punchestown in February.

Sent off an easy to back 10/1 chance today, the five-year-old gelding raced behind the leaders on the outer under Declan Lavery.

He improved to lead with four furlongs left to race and kept on well when ridden inside the final furlong, going on to score by three lengths in the colours of Gigginstown House Stud.

Think Positive, who was sent off the even money favourite, tried hard to reel-in the winner, but ultimately had to settle for second under Patrick Mullins for his father Willie.

May 31, 2019

The Henry de Bromhead-trained Megalomaniac stayed on best in the closing stages to make a winning start over fences in the opening Tom Murphy Mercedes A-Class Beginners Chase at Tramore.

The Gigginstown gelding went to post a 5/4 shot for the two-mile-five contest and tracked leader Knock On Steel for most.

Sean Flanagan asked his mount for an effort at the second last and he gained a narrow advantage over the final fence, going on to record a length-and-a-quarter win.

The Alfred Nobel gelding had opened his account over hurdles on his previous outing at Clonmel.

"That was great and he got a super ride from Sean,” said the trainer.

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“He is a grand horse and is improving all the time. He is very big and fair play to Sean for getting him around because he had a little stumble on the bend there. 

“We'll see what the handicapper does. It was a suitable 109 or less race and there is some nice rated novice chases throughout the summer so we will see what else there is. He might still be reasonably well treated over hurdles."

May 23, 2019

Stacks Mountain was another easy winner at Tipperary tonight when cruising to success in the three-mile maiden hurdle for Henry de Bromhead.

Davy Russell took the mount on the 5/4 favourite and had him to the fore throughout as he duelled for the lead with Poker D'ainay and Our Dark Horse,

Stacks Mountain asserted going to the second last and soon had things under control. He eased clear before the final flight to record a five-and-a-half length victory over Poker D'ainay.

The winner had been placed four times over hurdles previously and was gaining a deserved first success. He was making his first start since December.

Russell said afterwards:- "He didn't mind that drop of rain and was a typical one of Henry's that really jumped well. He has his horses in great form. The rain is getting into the ground but we don't mind."

May 17, 2019

Fresh from a treble at Clonmel yesterday Henry de Bromhead sent out a double at Kilbeggan tonight when Put The Kettle On landed the Wright Windows 50 Anniversary Celebration Beginners Chase.

The Stowaway mare was sent to post a well-backed 5/4 favourite but had to work hard to score over the trip just short of two-and-a-half miles.

Robbie Power drove her into contention jumping the last and she stayed on best in the closing stages to beat From Eden by a length-and-a-quarter.

Put The Kettle On was making her chase debut having won and been placed three times over timber.

“It's very tough on Rachael (Blackmore) because she's after missing five winners in the last couple of days. It's bad luck on her but unfortunately that's jump racing,” said Power.

May 16, 2019

A good evening got even better for Henry de Bromhead, as Visioman completed a treble for him in the Clonmel Racecourse Supporters Club Guest Evening Rated Novice Hurdle. 

The French bred son of Vision D'Etat won this race twelve months ago, but was later disqualified after a prohibited substance was found in a urine sample.

He failed to score in his next five starts, but was tried in competitive handicaps on his last three outings.

Back in novice company this evening, there was plenty of market support for the Alan Halsall owned six-year-old.

Available at 9/2 in early shows, he opened on-course at just 9/4, before going off the clear market leader at 13/8.

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Sent straight to the front by Sean Flanagan, who was completing a quick double, the bay victor made all.

He was pushed along and pressed by Little Light on the run to two out, but found more from the last, going on to score by two and a quarter lengths.

Little Light was returned at 3/1 under Ryan Treacy for Joseph O'Brien, while early morning favourite Sassy Yet Classy (4/1) was eight lengths back in third. 

The first two de Bromhead winners were Ourauldman and Megalomaniac. Rachael Blackmore was due to ride all three, but was stood down after a fall from Game Present in the second.

de Bromhead said after this success: "It was a super ride by Sean and it's been a good evening. Fair play to the lads who subbed great for Rachael and it was obviously very unfortunate for her.

"He stays well. We were going chasing and I just felt he deserved to win a hurdle. There is a 116 or less beginners here (June 7th) but we'll see what the handicapper thinks as well. Otherwise we might look for a rated novice."

May 16, 2019

Ourauldman made all in the Sliabh Na mBan Handicap Hurdle, providing Davy Russell with a winning spare ride.

Rachael Blackmore was due to partner this five-year-old for her boss Henry de Bromhead, but she was stood down for the day after a fall from Game Present in the second. 

While she was attended on the ground for a while, she thankfully walked to the ambulance. 

Fourth on debut at Killarney last July, the winning son Court Cave had been disappointing in four starts since.

Making his debut in handicap company this evening, and fitted with a tongue strap for the first time, he was sent to post an easy-to-back 10/1 chance (opened on-course at 7s)

May 13, 2019

Eamon High survived a final flight blunder before winning the Easy Clean Limited Handicap Hurdle at Killarney today, scoring for trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore.

Blackmore, who steered 90 winners in the season just finished, held the son of Westerner up behind the leaders and improved the gelding to lead after the third last flight. Eventual runner-up Waterville Dancer was behind the leaders when meeting trouble in-running at that point and while Eamon High blundered at the final flight, he stayed on gamely to beat a staying on Waterville Dancer by a neck.

The Stewards later enquired into the interference but left the result stand.

De Bromhead wasn't present and afterwards Blackmore stated “he didn't get a good jump at the last but stuck it out in the end and Henry had him right for today. 

He travelled and jumped and it is great for for Michael Kehoe who is a good supporter. When he was in front he was stairy enough and there should be more to come from him.”

May 04, 2019

Heron Heights wins another Pat Taafe Handicap Chase at Punchestown 2019

May 01, 2019

Minella Indo confirmed his Cheltenham superiority over Allaho as he landed the Novice Hurdle at Punchestown.

First and third in the Albert Bartlett in March, Allaho attempted to make all under Ruby Walsh in a change of tactics from Cheltenham and jumping the second last, it appeared he was going better than Minella Indo. 

However, turning into the straight Rachael Blackmore pulled Henry de Bromhead's charge out for a challenge and he quickened up smartly, shooting clear of Allaho to prove his Cheltenham win was no fluke at odds of 5-1. 

Carefully Selected came from out of the pack to close in to third, but Minella Indo ran out a two-length winner. 

"I thought turning in Ruby had us all gone, but he just stays so well," said De Bromhead. 

"Rachael said as soon as she pulled him out, he took off and he pricked his ears coming to the last. 

"It's lovely to come here and win this on top of the Albert Bartlett. I'm a bit lost for words to be honest, just delighted. 

"Chasing is the plan next season. That's what he was bought to do, he won a point-to-point, and that will be the plan."

April 23, 2019

Rachael Blackmore landed the Ratoath Pharmacy Ladies National Handicap in Fairyhouse on Surf Instructor to give her a double on the card.

Surf Instructor moved to the front at the halfway stage of this extended two mile six test.

The seven-year-old gelding travelled well racing round the home bend as he took a few lengths out of the pursuers.

However, he started to idle two out as The Church Gate got a sniff of victory in his nostrils.

Surf Instructor had a good look at the last before he jumped it and The Church Gate landed full of running under Karen Ferris.